With the start of the new training year, numerous young people in Baden-Württemberg are starting their training as medical assistants. In view of the growing shortage of skilled workers in the health care system, the Baden-Württemberg State Medical Association sees this as a positive signal. MFAs are considered an indispensable part of medical practices, as they coordinate patient flows, organize appointments and billing, assist with examinations and work in the laboratory.

The importance of MFA is becoming increasingly important in times of an aging society and increasing need for care. A lack of skilled workers is already leading to bottlenecks in practices, which could worsen further without political measures. This not only makes everyday practice life more difficult, but also practice expansions or successions. The State Medical Association is taking various measures to counteract this. An online job exchange (www.aerztekammer-bw.de/mfa-stellenboerse) arranges jobs and apprenticeships as well as internships and is very popular. In addition, the Medical Association advertises the MFA profession at training fairs and in campaigns and provides information about opportunities to attract skilled workers from abroad.

Despite the attractiveness of the profession, the State Medical Association sees a need for action on the part of politicians. Increasing workload and lack of financial and social recognition lead to many MFAs leaving the profession. The Medical Association is calling for better framework conditions not only to inspire young people for training, but also to keep them in the profession in the long term. The quality of patient care is at stake.

The three-year MFA training has a dual structure: practical skills are taught in doctors’ surgeries or medical facilities, while the vocational school provides theoretical knowledge. The State Medical Association is responsible for vocational training, and its four district medical associations conduct final examinations and offer further training. The start of the training year shows that the MFA profession continues to attract many young people despite challenges.

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

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